Rising Kiwi talent Louis Sharp has today been confirmed to race a full season of British Formula 4 with Carlin next year.
There’s already talk of the 15-year-old being a key contender for the title following his successes this year which includes two victories and a further 10 podiums. He also won both of last month’s races in F4 UAE in support of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Sharp is the real deal, and his re-signing today comes as little surprise. He says it’s a step in the right direction for his career as he works towards his dream of F1.
“First and foremost, I must thank David Dicker and his amazing Rodin Cars company for making all this possible,” Sharp said.
“I’m thrilled to be staying with Carlin after what was an amazing debut season. Coming from New Zealand, it’s been a big learning curve but, already, I’ve learned so much which will help me in the future. I’ve had a bit of success, too, which is a good progression towards my goal of Formula 1.”
Carlin are also thrilled on having Sharp rejoin, team director Trevor Carlin saying he’s excited at the prospect.
“Louis only arrived here a few weeks before the start of last season but we could see straight away just how good he was and how quick he was going to be,” he said.
“Considering his age and lack of experience, he had a fantastic year and we are so pleased he’s staying in the Carlin fold to build-on what we’ve already achieved. Together, I’m sure, we’ll be doing some more winning in British F4 where I truly believe he will be a title contender next season.”
Sharp placed fourth in the 2022 British F4 drivers standings despite missing the opening round due to not being of age.
What transpired next was nothing short of incredible, the Kiwi working his way forward race-by-race, often finishing on the podium or not far from it.
His growth throughout the year has presented itself in his results, evident by two commanding wins in Abu Dhabi last month in a field which included 2022 runaway winner Alex Dunne.
The British Formula 4 season features 10 rounds in 2023, including one of the full-length Silverstone Grand Prix circuit.
The season begins at Donington Park on 22-23 April, 2023.
